Elevating Native American Couture: High Fashion at Santa Fe Indian Market
Every August, thousands flock to Santa Fe for the Santa Fe Indian Market, produced by the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA)—the world's largest juried Native American arts market. Hotels fill up, and the city pulses with cultural events including film, fashion, live music, and performances. The 2018 edition took place August 18-19.
Design by Rose B. Simpson (Santa Clara Pueblo)
Founded in 1922, the Indian Market preserves and showcases Southwest Native American heritage through art and culture. Visitors and collectors admire and acquire authentic handmade works like pottery, basketry, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, carvings, clothing, and accessories from revered traditional artists and their descendants.
Design by Orlando Dugi (Navajo)
Over 97 years, the Market has evolved, blending contemporary programs with its fine arts festival vibe. Timeless Native American art—traditional or modern—draws from generational craftsmanship, cultural stories, and nature, making it a premier tourism draw beyond commerce. Attendees experience authentic, unique Native culture.
Design by Jamie Okuma (Shoshone-Bannock/Luiseño)
Two highlights celebrate Native attire: the longstanding Native American Clothing Contest featuring traditional regalia, and the cutting-edge Indian Market Haute Couture Fashion Show spotlighting top designers' collections.
Design by Dorothy Grant (Haida)
Representing over 200 federally recognized tribes, designers infuse global high fashion with Native heritage. Rooted in community and culture, their work shines through distinctly Native apparel.
Design by Pamela Baker (Kwakiutl/Squamish)
Designs—classic, contemporary, or fused—pair with elaborate accessories like beaded bags, headdresses, jewelry, and hairpieces.
Design by Loren Aragon (Acoma Pueblo)
Runway reveals are breathtaking: flowing textiles echoing landscapes, graphic prints from ancient symbols, and one-of-a-kind pieces with feathers, skins, bones, and furs.
Design by Patricia Michaels (Taos Pueblo)
"I feel excited about the Indian Market fashion getting better every year," says Taos Pueblo's Patricia Michaels, famed for her "PM Waterlily" Project Runway runner-up. "I look forward to the diversity... I hope our artistry—old and new—is always respected. We need balance amid fast consumerism, achieved with grace."
Design by Violet Ahmie (Laguna Pueblo)
Curated since 2014 by founder Amber-Dawn Bear Robe (Blackfoot/Siksika), an Assistant Art History Professor at the Institute of American Indian Arts, the show masterfully coordinates designers, models, styling, DJs, lights, and performers. Bear Robe hosts with poised elegance.
Design by Crystal Worl (Tlingit Athabascan)
At the Santa Fe Convention Center's grand ballroom runway, expect dazzling wearable art rooted in tradition. It draws celebrities, dignitaries, and photographers, filling to capacity.
Design by Jamie Okuma (Shoshone-Bannock/Luiseño)
"Native North American fashion has always been exciting... people are finally noticing," says Bear Robe. "After five years, it's a Market highlight. This year featured an international jeweler's new line—the best yet."
Design by Sho Sho Esquiro (Kaska Dene)
The 2018 Haute Couture Fashion Show was Sunday, August 19—a ticketed event that sold out. General admission: $25; new VIP All-Access Pass: $100 (lounge, front row, post-show reception). Check SWAIA for schedules and tickets.
Design by Maya Stewart (Chickasaw/Creek/Choctaw)
Plan your Santa Fe Indian Market trip with the 2018 Santa Fe Travel Guide. Explore Deals and Specials.
[metaslider id="6892"]
Written in partnership with TOURISM Santa Fe and Rima Krisst, Tribal Liaison. Header image: Patricia Michaels (Taos Pueblo).
